Rainer on Leadership

Josh and Sam discuss the best way to handle Super Bowl Sunday. Should churches say anything about it? Play into the day with gimmicks to increase attendance? What’s the best approach? There is nothing wrong with using cultural events in the church. But what do you say in the worship service? Gimmicks can fall flat and be self-defeating. Since the Super Bowl is in the evening, it could be a high-attendance Sunday. Most people do not travel that weekend. Don’t show the game at church. Most will want to host others in their homes. Plan a more upbeat service to capture the mood of most people. Resources: Chaney & Associates Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers.  We have decades of experience serving churches across the country.  We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission. Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence.  Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage.  Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry.  Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both.  Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers     The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church. You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church. This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry. Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders. Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity. Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges. Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin. The post Should Churches Acknowledge Super Bowl Sunday? appeared first on Church Answers.

A surprisingly high number of churchgoers attend because someone simply invited them. In this episode, Sam and Thom unpack why 60% might be the most overlooked and powerful number in church outreach today. This statistic comes from Grey Matter Research and Infinity Concepts, which recently asked more than 1,000 American evangelical Protestants about their church experiences. The Strength of the Personal Invitation Inviting Is Evangelism 101 Churches That Embrace Invitation Culture Grow Action Steps to Encourage More Invites Resources: HelpFinder Bible Tyndale House Publishers Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Invite Your One Good News Neighbor Toolkit Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: As ministry leaders, you are walking with people through anxiety, grief, conflict, and big questions every week. The HelpFinder Bible is a simple, practical tool to help you point them to Scripture quickly and confidently. Its unique HelpFinder Index includes more than 100 life topics—so whether someone is struggling with stress, relationships, or doubt, you can turn straight to relevant verses, helpful notes, and God’s promises that speak to their situation. It is great for counseling, discipleship, or small groups, and there is even a built-in discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations. Equip your church with a resource that makes it easier to find God’s answers—right when they need them most. Check out HelpFinderBible.com.     Bring the Game to Your Church From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league. Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers. The post The Church Number: 60% The Power of a Personal Invitation appeared first on Church Answers.

They unpack why congregations slide into discouragement and the mental fog that follows. They urge leaders to refocus on core mission instead of comparing or panicking. They highlight celebrating faithfulness and small wins rather than only outcomes. They recommend simple six-month initiatives to rebuild confidence and momentum.

In 2006, Simple Church encouraged churches to streamline programming, clarify discipleship pathways, and focus on moving people toward spiritual maturity rather than filling calendars with activities. The book had a significant impact, shaping how thousands of pastors thought about ministry systems and structure. Nearly two decades later, Thom and Sam take a fresh look: What principles stood the test of time? What challenges emerged in practice? And how should churches apply Simple Church today in a ministry landscape that’s more complex, digital, and post-pandemic than ever? Churches never attain the ideal, but the process is what makes the book impactful. Simplicity does not mean minimalism. Cutting programs without replacing them with relational pathways can lead to disengagement. Alignment requires ongoing work. A church may simplify in one season but drift back into complexity over time. Continual evaluation is essential. Culture must change, not just calendars. The biggest challenge wasn’t restructuring programs. It was reshaping the mindset of members who equated activity with spiritual growth. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Rooted “Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples” by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger (affiliate link) Certification in Simple Church Ministry Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: Upward Running for Your Small Group Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together. Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.     The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is… A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose A sustainable way to launch groups An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship An opportunity to change the culture of your church Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample. The post Revisiting Simple Church: What Worked, What Didn’t appeared first on Church Answers.

Letting a staff member go is one of the hardest leadership moments a pastor will ever face. Churches are relational environments, and employment decisions are deeply personal. But there are times when releasing someone is the most loving, wise, and responsible step—for the staff member, for the team, and for the health of the church. In this episode, Josh and Sam talk through how to navigate this complex process with clarity, compassion, and integrity. Always follow your polity and bylaws, no exceptions. Don’t delay the inevitable. Don’t pawn off the difficult conversation to someone else. And have the conversation in person. Document, document, document. Show the maximum amount of care and grace you can. Communicate to the church only what needs to be known, but don’t hide behind polity. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone. Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction. It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity. Download it for free.     Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers.  We have decades of experience serving churches across the country.  We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission. Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence.  Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage.  Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry.  Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both.  Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers The post How Do You Fire a Church Employee? appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, we look at Ryan Burge’s latest analysis showing how the modern Democratic coalition is being pulled apart by widening religious divides. While Republicans continue to draw support from a largely Christian voter base, Democrats now include two groups with opposite religious profiles: highly secular white voters and deeply religious voters of color. This creates major messaging and policy tensions within the party, tensions that didn’t exist at the same scale in earlier decades. 1. White Democrats Have Become Majority Non-Religious White Democrats shifted dramatically from being majority Christian in 2008 to majority non-religious in 2024, a complete reversal in just 16 years. This is the most secular major voting bloc in American politics today.  2. Democrats of Color Remain Significantly More Religious Black, Hispanic, and Asian Democrats attend church more often, place higher importance on religion, and are more likely to identify as Christian. Their religious profile mirrors the “average American” much more closely than white Democrats do.  3. These Religious Differences Create Major Ideological Splits Non-religious white Democrats take far more progressive positions than religious Democrats of color, leading to internal policy conflicts.  4. Democrats Cannot Build a Winning Strategy on Secular Voters Alone With the U.S. still roughly 60% Christian, Democrats risk alienating either secular whites or religious voters of color, depending on how they frame their messaging. Resources: Rooted Upward Sports “The Democrats Have a Religious Problem” by Ryan Burge Graphs About Religion “The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link) “Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America’s Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion” by Edward Larson (affiliate link) Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is… A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose A sustainable way to launch groups An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship An opportunity to change the culture of your church Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.     2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together. As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact. Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers The post The Burge Report: The Democrats Have a Religion Problem (Does It Matter?) appeared first on Church Answers.

As churches grow, leaders often reach a tipping point where the senior pastor can no longer carry the full weight of vision, preaching, pastoral care, administration, staff oversight, and organizational leadership. That’s when the question arises: Is it time to hire an Executive Pastor? In this episode, Josh and Sam unpack what an Executive Pastor actually does, why this role has become more common across church sizes, and how to know whether your church is ready for one. Capacity is the trigger, not attendance: The need for an XP has more to do with complexity than church size. Some churches need one at 250 people; others may not need one until 1,000. Administrative strain is the warning light: When ministries are growing but communication, processes, and staff coordination are breaking down, the church is entering the “organizational gap” that an XP is designed to close. Is the senior pastor ready to let go? Sometimes, the biggest issue is the difficulties top leaders have delegating to an executive pastor. Room exists in the personnel budget: Some churches hire part-time, while others wait until they can afford full-time. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates “Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples” by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger (affiliate link) FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone. Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction. It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity. Download it for free.     Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers.  We have decades of experience serving churches across the country.  We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission. Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence.  Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage.  Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry.  Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both.  Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers The post When Should a Church Hire an Executive Pastor? appeared first on Church Answers.

Many are tired of online worship. What happened? When the pandemic forced churches online, digital worship seemed like the future. Congregations grew virtually, and pastors reached audiences they never imagined. But five years later, that momentum has faded. The church is discovering what technology can—and cannot—do for worship. On this episode, Thom and Sam explore why online engagement has declined and how churches can find balance between digital convenience and in-person community. The Hype Has Faded: What began as a lifeline during lockdowns has lost its luster. Most believers now prefer in-person worship, with digital participation falling sharply since 2020. Screens Can’t Replicate Sanctuaries: True worship is embodied—voices, presence, and shared experience matter. A livestream delivers content but not community. Distraction Undermines Devotion: At-home worship competes with countless interruptions, reducing focus and engagement compared to gathered worship. Convenience Leads to Complacency: Online access makes participation easy, but it also weakens commitment and volunteerism. Digital Should Supplement, Not Substitute: Online tools still serve a purpose for the sick, travelers, and seekers, but they should point people back to the gathered church, not replace it. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Rooted Church Growth Services “Bridges of God: A Study in the Strategy of Missions” by Donald McGavran (affiliate link) “Revival of the Analog Church” by Thom S. Rainer – coming soon! Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: Upward Running for Your Small Group Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together. Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.     The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is… A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose A sustainable way to launch groups An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship An opportunity to change the culture of your church Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample. The post Digital Worship Fatigue: Why Online Church Can’t Replace the In-Person Gathering appeared first on Church Answers.

Every pastor has seen it. Churches splitting hairs over things that don’t matter. Beard length. Carpet color. Playground equipment. These disputes may sound absurd, but they reveal something much deeper. Small conflicts are rarely about what they seem. Beneath the surface, emotions, control, and trust are at play. In this episode, Josh and Sam explore why trivial fights erupt in churches, what they reveal about church health, and how leaders can keep the small stuff from becoming spiritual landmines. Personal Identity Intertwined with Church Identity: Churches are deeply tied to people’s sense of community and spiritual identity. Even small changes can feel like a threat to “who we are” as a church family, or “who I am” as a person, so people defend the status quo passionately. Emotional Over-Investment in Traditions: Even small church customs can symbolize cherished memories, identity, or heritage—making change feel like a personal loss. Low-Trust Environments Amplify Small Problems: When trust is lacking, every decision feels suspect. Minor disagreements can quickly spiral into major divisions. The “Last Straw” Effect Is Real: Years of frustration can erupt over a minor issue simply because it’s safer to fight about carpet than about long-term dysfunction. Displaced Conflict: Members may have personal frustrations (marital issues, work stress, health concerns) that they subconsciously project onto church matters. The church becomes the arena where unrelated tension spills over. The enemy doesn’t need major theological heresy to divide a church, just unaddressed, unchecked minor conflicts that slowly erode unity. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone. Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction. It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity. Download it for free.     Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers.  We have decades of experience serving churches across the country.  We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission. Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence.  Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage.  Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry.  Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both.  Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers The post Church Conflict: Five Common Ways Small Fights Turn into Big Problems appeared first on Church Answers.

Church attendance is both a helpful tool and a potential trap. Numbers can reveal momentum, but they can also distort priorities if leaders focus on counting heads instead of making disciples. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack the healthy and unhealthy ways to measure worship attendance, and how pastors can move from chasing growth to cultivating spiritual health. Attendance Can Help or Hurt: Measuring attendance isn’t wrong; it depends on how it’s used. Healthy leaders use it to foster connection and track discipleship, not as a scoreboard. Healthy Metrics Drive Momentum: Lead metrics (such as invitations or follow-ups) are more powerful than lag metrics (such as attendance numbers). Focus on what your people do, not just what the results show. Consistency Beats Flash: Regular attendance and steady rhythms of worship build deeper discipleship than occasional big Sundays. Presence Over Performance: Attendance still matters, but presence matters more: engagement, community, and spiritual growth. Churches grow best when they prioritize people, not numbers. Track the numbers, but don’t make them THE priority. Resources: Rooted Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Religious People Are Happier (And the Data Proves It) Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is… A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose A sustainable way to launch groups An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship An opportunity to change the culture of your church Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.     2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together. As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact. Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers The post Does Counting Church Worship Attendance Still Make Sense? appeared first on Church Answers.